Wide area transport networks for mobile radio access networks and methods of use

ABSTRACT

Wide area transport networks for mobile Radio Access Networks, and methods of use are provided herein. An exemplary wide area transport network may include a plurality of network segments that include at least one wireline network and at least one wireless network communicatively coupled with one another. Each of the plurality of network segments may be configured to transmit at least one of a plurality of signals communicated between a baseband module and a wireless transceiver.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This non-provisional U.S. patent application is a continuation of, andclaims the priority benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/732,273, filed Dec. 31, 2012, entitled “Wide Area Transport Networksfor Mobile Radio Access Networks and Methods of Use,” which claimspriority benefit of French Patent Number 1254139, filed on May 4, 2012,all of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in theirentireties including all references cited therein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present technology may be generally described as providing wide areatransport networks for mobile Radio Access Networks, and morespecifically, but not by limitation, to hybrid wired and wirelessnetworks that efficiently transmit fronthaul data flow between (a)baseband processing resource(s) and (a) wireless transceiver(s).

BACKGROUND

Mobile Radio Access Networks (RANs) increasingly rely on high capacitywide area transport networks to interconnect mobile transceivers andbaseband processing resources. Transmitting data across a wired network,such as a fiber network allows for high capacity and high speed datatransmission. Unfortunately, wired networks may be limited ingeographical reach and often require high costs to build and operate.Wireless networks allow for data transmission into locales where wirednetworks are unavailable. Wireless networks are bandwidth limited andthus do not currently provide the data transmission capacity andvelocity afforded by wired networks. An elegant solution to increasingthe data transmission capacity and velocity between wireless networktransceivers is provided in French Patent Number 1254139, filed on May4, 2012, which describes the separation of traffic data betweenfronthaul signals, control protocol data and user data flow.

What is needed are wide area transport networks that comprise both wiredand wireless network segments. Further, these wide area transportnetworks should allow for selective transmission of fronthaul data flowin either multiplexed or demultiplexed forms depending on performanceaspects (e.g., key performance indicators) of network segments of themobile wireless network.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT TECHNOLOGY

According to some embodiments, the present technology may be directed toa wide area transport network, comprising a plurality of networksegments that comprise at least one wireline network and at least onewireless network communicatively coupled with one another, each of theplurality of network segments being configured to transmit at least oneof a plurality of signals communicated between at least one basebandmodule and at least one mobile wireless transceiver, plurality ofsignals corresponding to a digital fronthaul data flow.

According to some embodiments, the present technology may be directed toa method that includes a step of transmitting fronthaul data flow acrossa wide area transport network that communicatively couples at least onebaseband module and at least one wireless transceiver, the wide areatransport network comprising a plurality of network segments thatcomprise at least one wireline network and at least one wireless networkcommunicatively coupled with one another, the fronthaul data flow beingdemultiplexed and remultiplexed by fronthaul modules of the wirelessnetwork. In certain embodiments, key performance indicators of themobile wireless network may be used in the configuration of thisnetwork.

According to some embodiments, the present technology may be directed tomethods that comprise: (a) evaluating key performance indicators for aplurality of network segments of a mobile radio access network,plurality of network segments comprising at least one wireline networkand at least one wireless network communicatively coupled with oneanother; and (b) based upon the evaluation of key performanceindicators, performing any of multiplexing, demultiplexing, or passingof fronthaul data flow across the plurality of network segments.

According to some embodiments, the present technology may be directed toa wide area transport network, comprising a plurality of networksegments that comprise at least one wired network and at least onewireless network communicatively coupled with one another, each of theplurality of network segments being configured to transmit a fronthauldata flow that comprises (an) RF signal(s), for instance coded asin-phase and quadrature radio access signal, control protocolinformation, and user data flow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Certain embodiments of the present technology are illustrated by theaccompanying figures. It will be understood that the figures are notnecessarily to scale and that details not necessary for an understandingof the technology or that render other details difficult to perceive maybe omitted. It will be understood that the technology is not necessarilylimited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary wide area transport network inwhich embodiments of the present technology may be practiced;

FIG. 2A is an exemplary wide area transport network;

FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary functional implementation of afronthaul module according to the present technology;

FIG. 2C illustrates another exemplary fronthaul module constructed inaccordance with the present technology;

FIG. 3 is another exemplary wide area transport network;

FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of a base station structureimplementing the method for transmitting information according to theinvention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of the transmitting of informationbetween two units of the base station of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of the transmitting of informationbetween two units of the base station of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of the transmission informationaccording to the present technology at the level of a transmitter;

FIG. 8 is a schematic representation of the transmission informationaccording to the present technology at the level of a receiver;

FIGS. 9A and 9B are flowcharts of an exemplary method for transmittinginformation; and

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary computing system that may be used toimplement embodiments according to the present technology.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

While this technology is susceptible of embodiment in many differentforms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described indetail several specific embodiments with the understanding that thepresent disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of theprinciples of the technology and is not intended to limit the technologyto the embodiments illustrated.

It will be understood that like or analogous elements and/or components,referred to herein, may be identified throughout the drawings with likereference characters. It will be further understood that several of thefigures are merely schematic representations of the present technology.As such, some of the components may have been distorted from theiractual scale for pictorial clarity.

Generally speaking, the present technology may be directed to wide areatransport networks, also referred to as hybrid cloud radio accessnetwork transport architectures. Broadly, hybrid networks of the presenttechnology may be built upon a variety of network topologies that allowfor the transmission of mobile network fronthaul signals, controlmanagement protocol elements, and user digital data flow. The hybridnetwork may include combinations of fiber optic networks, electric cablenetworks, along with other types of wired networks that would be knownto one of ordinary skill in the art with the present disclosure beforethem. These wired networks may be communicatively coupled with one ormore wireless networks that extend the reach of the wired networks. Thatis, wired networks are inherently limited in geographical scope.Physical linkages required in a wired network prevent connecting oflocations that are inaccessible or impractical for wired media. Forexample, a centralized metropolitan city may easily access a wired fiberring, whereas it may be impractical to extend a fiber spoke from thefiber hub out to a rural community. Similarly, a wired network mayprovide connectivity along a route, but connecting elements situated ata distance from this route would require an extension of this wirednetwork, or the use of complementary techniques. Thus, the reach of awired network can be extended by the inclusion of wireless networks.

While wireless networks can extend the reach of wired networks, thesewireless networks may not be capable of facilitating the same capacityand velocity of data transfer as a wired network. Thus, the hybridnetworks of the present technology may allow for the selectivetransmission of fronthaul data flow across the hybrid network in amanner which is both efficient in coverage and capacity. The hybridnetwork may selectively separate and reassemble (e.g., via, for example,multiplexing or demultiplexing) fronthaul data flow as needed, basedupon key performance indicators or design objectives for each segment ofthe network. For example, demultiplexing of fronthaul data flow andseparate processing of the various components of the flow may allow forhigh capacity fronthaul data to be transmitted efficiently over abandwidth-limited wireless network segment by using differenttransmission methods for the demultiplexed flows.

In accordance with the present technology, RF signals (that may bedigitally coded as in-phase and quadrature signals (I/Q)) may betransported within the Mobile Radio Access Network, alongside generalinformation (such as control and management protocol elements) and userdata flow (such as user data traffic over local area networks associatedwith a particular mobile wireless transceiver site and equipment). TheRF signals may be transported as analog signals corresponding to the RFcarriers modulated as per a corresponding Radio Access Technology (RAT),while general control and management protocol elements and user dataflows may be transported as digitally encoded and modulated signals.

These and other advantages of the present technology will be discussedin greater detail herein.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary hybrid network 100 that includes abaseband module 105 associated with a wireline network 110. The wirelinenetwork 110 is shown as comprising a fiber ring 115 and a plurality offiber spurs 120A-F. Additionally, a plurality of wireless networks arecommunicatively coupled with the fiber spurs 120A-F, as will bedescribed in greater detail relative to FIGS. 2 and 3. It will beunderstood that the wireline network 110 may comprise any network thatutilizes a wired rather than a wireless media. Exemplary wirelinenetworks comprise but are not limited to fiber networks, copper wirenetworks, coaxial wire networks, and the like.

The hybrid network 100 may also comprise a network management system 125and a core network 130, which in some instances includes, for example, acore cellular network.

Generally, the hybrid network 100 may be built on a variety oftopologies to carry mobile network “fronthaul” signals (for example I/Qquantized samples), control and management protocol elements, and userdigital data. Again, the hybrid network 100 may comprise any combinationof different media including, but not limited to, fiber optic, electriccables and wireless links—just to name a few. The hybrid network 100 maycomprise a transport network spanning one or more network segments thatare communicatively coupled to the baseband module 105. The basebandmodule 105 may be communicatively coupled to any other portion of thehybrid network 100 via fronthaul data flow. It will be understood thatthe hybrid network 100 may include a limitless number of networksegments which are connected to a centralized baseband processing serverpool. The hybrid network 100 may support a hierarchical structure forconnecting macro sites with stringent key performance indicators(“KPIs”, such as transmit power, receiver sensitivity, capacity,availability and range) and high capacity, down to small cell sites withrelatively less stringent KPIs since they are designed to serve fewerusers over a more geographically limited area.

The present technology provides flexibility for network operators todeploy coverage and capacity where it is needed most (e.g., based uponan RF propagation perspective) by providing both a wireless and a wiredinterconnection between one or more remote radio transceivers and one ormore centrally located baseband modules.

In addition, these exemplary hybrid networks allow for the use ofcollaborative baseband processes such as joint processing andcooperative reception and transmission that allow for the potential forinterference reduction and performance enhancement in a mobile network.Additionally, the hybrid networks allow for a wide range of topologicaloptions, including hub and spokes, daisy-chaining, and loops—just toname a few.

FIG. 2A illustrates a portion of an exemplary wide area transportnetwork 200 that includes a wired network 205 that includes a fiber ring210 which is communicatively coupled with a first wireless transceiver215 via a fiber spur 220. Baseband module 245 transmits and receives allthe fronthaul signals destined to or transmitted from mobile wirelesstransceivers 215, 225 and 235. The first wireless transceiver 215 usesthe fronthaul signals from baseband module 245 and processed byfronthaul management module 214 and performs all the functions of astandard wireless transceiver. The first fronthaul management module 214may also be communicatively coupled with a second (or more) fronthaulmanagement module 224, coupled with a mobile wireless transceiver 225,via a first wireless fronthaul network segment 230. Fronthaul managementmodule 214 forwards the portion of the fronthaul signals relevant to theother mobile wireless transceivers such as 225 and 235, to the fronthaulmanagement module 224, in this case via a wireless link. The secondwireless fronthaul transceiver 224 may also be communicatively coupledwith a wireless fronthaul receiver 234 (e.g., endpoint) via a secondwireless fronthaul network segment 240 and a mobile wireless transceiver235. It will be understood that the mobile wireless transceiver 235 mayinclude, for example, a wireless router or hub although one of ordinaryskill in the art will appreciate that the mobile wireless transceiver235 may comprise any wireless device that is capable of receiving and/ortransmitting data over a wired or wireless network with the RFperformance as required to handle the characteristics of the signalsbeing transmitted.

It will be understood that the terms “mobile wireless transceiver” mayinclude a network element that transmits and receives RF signals to andfrom the mobile users. The term “fronthaul module” may refer to anetwork element responsible for processing the fronthaul signals or datastreams. Processing may include tasks such as coding/decoding,modulating/demodulating, multiplexing/demultiplexing, and so forth. Insome instances, the mobile wireless transceiver and the fronthaul modulemay be combined together. Also, while the fronthaul module may beassociated with wireless transmission equipment, the fronthaul modulemay also be associated with a wireline medium, or a mixedwireline/wireless medium. Thus the use of the term fronthaul module torefer to a fronthaul processing and transmission element.

In this embodiment, the network 200 is shown as comprising a basebandmodule 245 is shown as being associated with the fiber ring 210. Thehybrid network 200 is provided to efficiently transmit information fromthe baseband module 245 to mobile wireless transceivers 215, 225 and235.

In accordance with the present technology, digital fronthaul data may beseparated into constituent parts at the baseband module 245, in a mannerthat is described in greater detail relative to FIGS. 4-9B. Generally,the digital fronthaul data may be separated into radio signalinformation 250; control and protocol data 255; and user data 260. Eachof the segments of the hybrid network, including both wired segments(e.g., the fiber ring and fiber spur), and the wireless network segments(e.g., first and second wireless network segments 230 and 240) areconfigured to transmit the separate parts of the digital fronthaul dataflow. Thus, the first and second wireless transceivers 215 and 225 passthe separated data. Therefore, there is no need to demultiplex thedigital fronthaul data as it travels along the hybrid network 200.

FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary functional implementation of afronthaul module 270 according to the present technology. Fronthaulmodule 270 presents a digital interface 263 using for example a fiberoptic medium. The traffic on fronthaul interface 263 comprises amultiplexed signal that includes several fronthaul signals which aretransmitted between a baseband module and a plurality of mobile wirelesstransceivers, which are communicatively coupled together via the widearea radio access network. An exemplary mobile wireless transceivers isrepresented as 269. Interface processing module 271 demultiplexes andmultiplexes two or more of the fronthaul signals (e.g., fronthaulsignals 266 a, 266 b, 267 and 268) according to a predefinedmultiplexing algorithm. Fronthaul signals may contain the fronthaulinformation for the subset of mobile wireless transceivers for whichthey are destined. Fronthaul signal 266 a is fed into processing unit272 a which decomposes fronthaul signal 266 a into a RF carriers signalbuilt from the I/Q data contained within fronthaul signal 266 a,digitally modulated general control data and digitally modulated userinformation, both contained in the fronthaul signal 266 a, andaltogether multiplexed into signal 265. A similar process applies to 266b through 272 b and producing signal 264. Fronthaul signal 267 istransmitted into mobile wireless transceiver 269 which may be integratedinside the fronthaul module 270 or communicatively coupled withfronthaul module through an interface.

Multiplexed signal 265 is fed into interface module 275, which may use awireline medium 276 comprising of any of fiber optic, coaxial cable orcopper line. Multiplexed signal 264 may be fed into interface module274, which may use a wireless medium 277. Interface module 274 can beimplemented as a radio transceiver and antenna with the appropriateperformance for transmitting multiplexed signal 264 over a certaindistance. Fronthaul signal 268 is fed into a digital interface module273 that may utilize a high capacity wireline medium 278. The signaltransiting on this interface consists of the relevant fronthaulinformation to provide fronthaul signals to mobile wireless transceiversfor which they are destined.

While the above represents one direction of the signal flows, allinterfaces and modules are designed to process bidirectional signals,such that each operation has its symmetrical function for handlingtraffic in the other direction.

FIG. 3 illustrates a portion of an exemplary wide area transport network300 that includes a wired network 305 that includes a fiber ring 310which is communicatively coupled with a first fronthaul module via afiber spur 320. The first wireless transceiver 315 may also becommunicatively coupled with a second (or more) wireless fronthaultransceiver 325 via a first wireless fronthaul network segment 330. Thesecond wireless fronthaul transceiver 325 may also be communicativelycoupled with a mobile wireless receiver 335 (e.g., endpoint) via asecond wireless network segment 340. It will be understood that thewireless receiver 335 may include, for example, a wireless router or hubalthough one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that thewireless receiver 335 may comprise any wireless device that is capableof receiving and/or transmitting data over a wired or wireless network.

In this embodiment, the network 300 is shown as comprising a basebandmodule 345 (also referred to as a baseband processor and/or a basebandmodule processing unit) shown as being associated with the wired network305. The hybrid network 300 is provided to efficiently transmitinformation from the baseband module 345 to mobile wireless transceivers315, 325 and 335.

While the embodiments described above contemplate the use of a fiberring in combination with one or more fiber spurs, the use of a fronthaulmodule 270, which is communicatively coupled with the wireline network(e.g., the fiber ring) allows for the elimination of the need to utilizefiber spurs. That is, the fronthaul module 270 may communicativelycouple with the wireless transceivers of the wireless network over awireless communications path.

FIG. 2C illustrates another exemplary fronthaul module constructed inaccordance with the present technology. In this case fronthaul module290 uses a wireless interface 288 to receive data received from thebaseband module located within the Wide Area Radio Access Network (e.g.,wireless network) and to transmit data received from one or more mobilewireless transceivers, to the baseband module. The signals on thiswireless interface may comprise a multiplex of modulated RF carriers,digitally modulated general control signals and digitally modulated userinformation.

Interface module 291 includes a wireless transceiver to process thewireless signals and to demultiplex the aggregated fronthaul signalsinto individual fronthaul signals which are transmitted fronthaulprocessing modules 292 a, 292 b, 292 c and 292 d, as well as intointerface module 293. It is noteworthy that two types of multiplexingmay occur: (1) multiplexing several fronthaul signals destined tomultiple Remote Radio Units (RRU sometimes referred to as Remote RadioHeads or RRH) (mobile wireless transceivers); and (2) multiplexing theRF carriers with the control information and with the user informationfor each individual fronthaul signal, as well as to multiplex fronthaulsignals from the mobile wireless transceivers which are destined for thebaseband module (reverse operation). The purpose of 292 a, 292 b, 292 cand 292 d is to transform the digital fronthaul signal into a multiplexof radio carriers, digitally modulated control and digitally modulateduser information, resulting in digital fronthaul signals 283, 284 285and 286, respectively.

In the present example, digital fronthaul signal 283 is transmitted tomobile wireless transceiver 289, which is equipped with a digitalwireless fronthaul interface. One example of such interface is given bythe Common Public Radio Interface standard or CPRI and the correspondingsystems are sometimes referred to as Remote Radio Heads (RRH) or RemoteRadio Units (RRU). Conversely digital fronthaul signal 283 is also usedto carry uplink signals from the mobile wireless transceiver 289 anddestined for the baseband module. In this case, the digital fronthaulsignal may only contain the fronthaul signal relevant to mobile wirelesstransceiver 289.

In the present example, digital fronthaul signal 284 is provided todigital fronthaul interface unit 296 which provides an external digitalfronthaul signal 282 used to transmit and receive fronthaul informationrelevant to the mobile wireless transceivers located in thecorresponding part of the network (i.e., “behind” this port). In thiscase, digital fronthaul signal 282 may contain the fronthaul signalrelevant to those mobile wireless transceivers. As an example, digitalfronthaul signal 282 may use a fiber medium with a high capacity.

In another example, digital fronthaul signal 285 is transmitted tofronthaul interface unit 295 which provides external interface 299 usedto transmit and receive fronthaul information relevant to the mobilewireless transceivers located in the corresponding part of the network(i.e. “behind” this port). In this case fronthaul signal 299 comprises amultiplex of RF carriers, digitally modulated control information anddigitally modulated user information carried over a wireline medium. Inthis case, fronthaul signal 299 may only contain the fronthaul signalrelevant to those mobile wireless transceivers. As an example, fronthaulinterface 299 may use a fiber medium (or a wavelength of a fiber) or acoaxial cable medium. (In the present example, digital fronthaul signal286 is used to feed wireless fronthaul interface unit 294 which providesfronthaul signal 298 used to transmit and receive fronthaul informationrelevant to the mobile wireless transceivers located in thecorresponding part of the network (i.e., “behind” this port). In thiscase fronthaul signal 298 comprises a multiplex of RF carriers,digitally modulated control information and digitally modulated userinformation carried over a wireless medium. In this case, wirelessfronthaul signal 298 may contain the fronthaul signal relevant to thosemobile wireless transceivers. As an example, wireless fronthaulinterface 299 may comprise an appropriately engineered RF transceiverand antenna.

In the present example, fronthaul signal 287 is a multiplex of RFcarriers, digitally modulated control information and digitallymodulated user information carried between interface module 291 andwireless interface module 293. Wireless interface module 293 maycomprise an appropriately engineered RF transceiver and antenna. In thiscase, wireless fronthaul signal 287 and wireless fronthaul signal 297may comprise the fronthaul signal relevant to those mobile wirelesstransceivers located in the corresponding part of the network. In thiscase, no conversion to digital fronthaul format is required.

With regards to FIG. 3, and in contrast with the hybrid network 200 ofFIG. 2A, the first wireless transceiver 315 is configured to separate adigital fronthaul data received from the baseband module 345 intoconstituent parts such as radio signal 350, control and protocolinformation 355, and user data information 360. Conceptually, when anevaluation of key performance indicators for a wireless network segment,such as the first wireless fronthaul network segment 330 indicate thattransmission of the digital fronthaul data 365 would be impractical orimpossible via the first wireless network segment 330, the firstfronthaul management module may separate the digital fronthaul data intothe various parts described in greater detail relative to FIGS. 4-9B.For example, if the available bandwidth of the first wireless networksegment 330 is less than the size of the digital fronthaul data, thedigital fronthaul data may be split and then transmitted over the firstwireless network segment 330.

In some instances, the second fronthaul management module 324 may passthe separated information to the fronthaul management module 334associated with wireless receiver 335. According to some embodiments,the second wireless transceiver 325 may recreate digital fronthaul data365′ from the separate information before transmitting the recreateddigital fronthaul data 365′ to the wireless receiver 335. Again, methodsfor recreating the digital fronthaul data from separated information aredescribed in greater detail relative to FIGS. 4-9B. Also, the recreateddigital fronthaul data 365′ may include different data relative to theoriginal digital fronthaul data 365 because in some embodiments,unneeded data may be removed or modified during separation of theoriginal digital fronthaul data 365.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary method 400 for transmitting data over awide area transport network. Again, this network includes a hybridnetwork that comprises at least one wired network segment and at leastone wireless network segment that are communicatively coupled to oneanother. The hybrid network allows for efficient transmission of databetween a transmitter and a receiver, such as a baseband module and aradio frequency unit, respectively.

FIGS. 4-9B collectively illustrate systems and methods for providing forhigh capacity wireless communications between one or more base bandunits (“BBU”) and one or more radio frequency units (“RFU”) within awireless network assembly, such as a base station (“BS”). The BBU andRFU communicate digitally with one another through a bidirectionaltransport interface. Signals representing carrier data may betransmitted and received by the antenna(s) associated with the basestation (BS) may be sent in the manner known as “I/Q,” which stands for“in phase/in quadrature.” Other information that does not representcarrier data may also be communicated between the BBU and RFU. These twotypes of information are typically multiplexed into a digital fronthauldata.

More specifically, the BBU and the RFU may be communicatively coupledusing a standardized/approved open protocol, a proprietary protocol, ora combination thereof. In some embodiments, protocols utilized betweenthe BBU and RFU facilitate bidirectional transmission of the digitalfronthaul data between the BBU and the RFU either by fiber optics orother wired coupling types. Again, these protocols allow fortime-division multiplexing various types of the information such asgeneral information, which may include, but is not limited to control,command, synchronization, and other data, other than “I/Q” information.Radio signals comprising carrier data, also referred to as “trafficdata” or “I/Q data,” may be transmitted and received by variousantenna(s) associated with the Base Station.

These protocols may be entirely digital in nature and their throughputare generally in excess of 600 megabits/s and can exceed 10 gigabits/s.The structure of these protocols typically includes a set amount ofwords that represent general information and a set amount of words thatrepresent the I/Q data. In some instances the set amount of wordsrepresenting the general information may be relatively smaller than theset amount of words that represent the I/Q data.

Normally, in order to transport both the I/Q data and the generalinformation, the I/Q data (e.g., radio signal information) istransmitted as a whole in digital form. Digital streams and/ormultiplexes may be handled by the system at gradually increasingthroughput rates. For example, digital streams on the order ofapproximately tens of gigabits/s may be transmitted using radio accesstechnologies such as 3G/4G, LTE “Long Term Evolution”, LTE-Advanced, andso forth.

Because of its almost limitless capacity, fiber optic media may beutilized to transmit I/Q data. Other solutions contemplate transmittingthe digital I/Q and/or general data using wireless networks. Onesolution contemplates the use of radio waves. This solution requires asubstantial throughput rate in order to transport the entire structure(e.g., both I/Q and general data), and thus, substantial bandwidthutilization or sophisticated modulation may be required. These exemplarymethods are described in greater detail in European Patent Number1534027, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in itsentirety including all references cited therein. Another solutioncontemplates the use of optical waves, as indicated in document U.S.Patent Application Publication Number 2003-027597, which is herebyincorporated by reference herein in its entirety including allreferences cited therein. While both of these wireless systems propose adigital solution for connecting the BBU module to the RFU radio, thesesystems suffer from drawbacks which include, but are not limited to thefact that the throughput (e.g., fronthaul) of these systems is quitesubstantial.

Advantageously, the present technology allows for the transmission ofinformation using wireless systems in such a way that a substantialreduction in the size of the throughput between the BBU and the RFU isachieved while ensuring complete transmission of I/Q data, which isconstantly evolving and growing over time. These and other advantages ofthe present technology will be described in greater detail below withreference to the drawings.

Referring now to FIG. 4, which illustrates an exemplary architecture forpracticing aspects of the present technology. A base station (BS) 1 isshown as comprising a baseband module (BBU) 2, which is communicativelycoupled with the core network (CN). The CN manages communicativecoupling with a public telephony (PSTN) or data network. BBU 2 may becommunicatively coupled with a connection unit BBU 5 via any suitablepath or channel that allows for the transmission of digital data.

The BS 1 may also comprise a series of radio frequency units, such asradio frequency unit (RFU) 3 a and 3 b. In this example, two RFUs arepresent. In one instance, RFU 3 a may be communicatively coupled with aRFU coupling module 6 a by a communications channel 9 which may allowfor analog or mixed analog and digital transmission. In the otherinstance, RFU 3 b may be communicatively coupled to a RFU couplingmodule 6 b by a digital communications channel 22. In an embodiment, RFU3 a may be communicatively coupled to an antenna 4 a by a secondcommunication path 10 a and RFU 3 b may be communicatively coupled to anantenna 4 b by a second communication path 10 b. The BBU coupling module5 additionally communicates with all RFU coupling modules 6 a and 6 bvia a wireless communications channel 7 a or 7 b, also referred to as a“wireless network segment.”

FIGS. 4, 5, 7, and 6 collectively illustrate an exemplary system andmethod for transmitting information using the system of FIG. 4.According to some embodiments, the BBU 2 may be communicatively coupledwith the core network (CN) according to methods that would be known toone of ordinary skill in the art with the present disclosure beforethem.

The BBU 2 communicates with at least one of the RFUs 3 using the BBUcoupling module 5, to which the BBU 2 is communicatively coupled via adigital communications channel 8. While the BBU coupling module 5 andBBU 2 have been shown as being separate devices, in some instances theBBU coupling module 5 and the BBU 2 may be integrated into the samedevice. In some embodiments digital protocol frames 80 may betransmitted between the BBU 2 and an RFU 3 via BBU coupling module 5using the digital communications channel 8. It is noteworthy that adigital protocol frame 80 may comprise a series of words related toinformation of two types: (a) words corresponding to generalinformation; and (b) words corresponding to “I/Q” radio signalinformation. While the method contemplates the use of “words” todifferentiate between the two basic types of information included in thedigital fronthaul data, the system may be configured to differentiateinformation types using any other differentiators that may also be usedin accordance with the present technology.

Generally, a method for transmitting information may comprise separatingdigital fronthaul data into the two basic data types, comprising I/Qdata and general data. In some instances, separating digital fronthauldata may include demultiplexing of the digital fronthaul data byevaluating digital protocol frames 80.

In another embodiment, a method for transmitting information maycomprise separating analog RF signals and the general data, andtransmitting them on two different channels.

The digital protocol frames may be evaluated to differentiate wordsrelated to general information from the words related to IQ radio signalinformation in each of the digital protocol frames 80.

Again, data included in the digital protocol frames 80 may bedemultiplexed in a demultiplexing module 51 in the BBU coupling module5. The BBU coupling module 5 may then transmit the demultiplexedinformation types via the wireless communications channel 7 using anantenna 50. More specifically, the digital protocol frames 80 may beseparated into general information and radio frequency information. Thegeneral information may be extracted from the protocol frames 80 by thedemultiplexing module 51 and passed through as digitally modulated databy digital modulator module 52. The radio frequency information may befurther separated into information constituting radio frequency carriersignals 71-74, also referred to as carrier images and modulatedaccordingly into radio frequency carriers 71-74 by module 53.

Words related to general information may be transmitted through adigital communication channel of the wireless communications channel 7using digital modulation. With regard to the I/Q radio signals, itshould be noted that the I/Q radio signals ultimately represent carriersintended for transmission or reception by the antenna(s) 4 associatedwith the base station 1. The base station 1 may process the I/Q radiosignals with the appropriate technologies required by the radio accessinterfaces (Radio Access Technology or “RAT”), which allows forcommunication between mobile devices and the antennas 4 of the BS 1.

Next, the BBU coupling module 5 may be configured to separate the wordsrelated to IQ radio signals into a series of radio frequency carriers.The information belonging to I/Q radio signals contained in the digitalprotocol frame 80 are transmitted as radio frequency carriers 71, 72,73, 74 by the BBU coupling module 5 through the wireless communicationschannel 7.

It will be understood that the transmission of I/Q radio signals used bythe wireless communications channel 7 may be based on similar radioaccess technologies implemented by the one or more RFU 3 for thecarriers and RAT in question, transmitted and received by the antennas 4and associated with the RFU 3. For example, the radio technology used totransmit the I/Q radio signals may enhance the efficiency of datatransmission over the wireless communications channel 7 relative tovarious performance characteristics of the wireless medium. Theseperformance characteristics include, but are not limited to line ofsight propagation, point-to-point topology, lower interference, and soforth.

The words related to I/Q radio signals are converted into radiofrequency carriers 71, 72, 73, 74 using techniques that would be knownto one of ordinary skill in the art such as filtering, digital upconversion “DUC”, I/Q mixing, mixing, digital/analog conversion, and soforth.

Advantageously, transmitting I/Q radio signals in the form of radiofrequency carriers may be transparent at the throughput rates proposedby RATs of operators of the BS 1, as the integrity of the I/Q radiosignals, carrier “images”, and RATs, transmitted and received by theantennas 4 is sufficiently maintained with regard to the overallperformance of the wireless communications channel 7. In some instances,transmitting I/Q radio signals in the form of radio frequency carriersmay be accomplished in a non-transparent manner.

Moreover, the bandwidth necessary for the wireless communicationschannel 7 may be as defined by the associated RAT(s), which aretransmitted and received by the antennas 4 associated with the RFU 3.

As an end result, a series of radio frequency carriers 71, 72, 73, 74for each digital protocol frame 80 may be transmitted through thewireless communications channel 7, and one or more digital modulationsmay be utilized to transmit the general information protocol elements.The series of radio frequency carriers 71, 72, 73, 74 and the digitallymodulated transmissions 75 are then received by the RFU coupling module6 using an antenna 60.

Next, the RFU coupling unit 6 b may perform a method of reassembling thefronthaul signals and data from the previously separated data (e.g., I/Qradio signals and general information). An exemplary method fortransmitting information may further comprise converting the series ofradio frequency carriers 71, 72, 73, 74 into a series of wordsrepresenting the I/Q radio signal information. Again, techniques thatwould be known to one or ordinary skill in the art may be utilized, suchas filtering, digital down conversion “DDC”, I/Q mixing, mixing,digital/analog conversion and so forth. The digitally modulatedtransmissions 75 may be used by the RFU 3 b according to apre-established protocol.

More specifically, the method may include conversion by conversion unit63 of the series of radio frequency carriers 71, 72, 73, 74 into aseries of words representing the content of the I/Q radio signals, anddemodulation of the digitally modulated data into words representing thegeneral information 61. The series of words may be multiplexed byreassembling the words to recreate digital protocol frames 220, whichcorrespond to the digital protocol frames 80 which were previouslydemultiplexed. The digital protocol frames 220 are then transmitted tothe RFU 3 b through second communications channel 22. The secondcommunications channel 22 may allow for the transmission of digitaland/or analog data.

In some instances, the carrier images 71-74 may be multiplexed intoradio signal information 63, while modulated transmissions 75 isdemodulated back into the general information 61. The generalinformation and radio signal information 63 may be reassembled back intodigital fronthaul data 62, which is transmitted as digital protocolframes 220.

In order to ensure proper reconstruction of the digital protocol frames220, synchronization information is transmitted between the BBU couplingmodule 5 and the RFU coupling module 6 b to allow the generalinformation and the I/Q radio signal information of the digital protocolframes 220 to be returned to a coherent form.

The digital protocol generally used to transport frames 80 (afterdemultiplexing), 220 (after multiplexing) allow for substantialdistances between the BBU and the RFU. Therefore those protocols cantolerate a significant proportional delay whether on a wired or awireless link. For example, for each 10 kilometers of fiber optic used,a delay of 55 microseconds may be seen. Additionally, it is possible totemporarily store the general information or the I/Q information in abuffer zone within the RFU coupling module 6 b. This allows for morecoherent processing of all (or a substantial portion) of informationreceived based on synchronization information, by the RFU couplingmodule 6 b.

In another exemplary embodiment information not useful to the digitalprotocol frame 80 is removed in order to eliminate useless information.For example, words that are not filled or used may be eliminated. Thus,only necessary information may be transmitted, proportionally reducingthe volume of information transmitted.

FIG. 6 illustrates another exemplary embodiment where the RFU couplingmodule 6 a and the RFU 3 a form a wireless remote radio head (RRH).According to some embodiments, the RFU coupling module 6 a retransmitsto the RFU the radio frequency carriers 71, 72, 73, 74 via firstcommunications channel 9, for retransmission via the antenna 4 aassociated with the RFU 3 a. According to some embodiments, the RFUcoupling module 6 a may not multiplex the general information words andin some instances it may not convert the radio frequency carriers 71,72, 73, 74 into words related to the I/Q radio signal information.Accordingly, the aforementioned digital protocol frames 220 may not bereconstructed by the RFU coupling module 6 b. Alternatively, the RFUcoupling module 6 b may adapt the radio frequency carriers 71, 72, 73,74 based on the associated RATs for transmission by the relay antenna 4b associated with the RFU 3 b.

In some instances the general information may be processed by the RFUcoupling module 6 (e.g., instead of being transmitted to 3 which thenuses it to perform control or management tasks). In some instances, inaddition to the first communications channel 9, which may comprise ananalog communication link, there may be a separate control interface(such as an API) over which a control and management process can takeplace.

The term “processing” may be understood to include the modification ofRF signals based upon the content control information included in thegeneral information.

According to some embodiments, a BBU coupling module 6 a may be used tointerpret and utilize the general information in order to performvarious actions, such as actions performed by the RFU 3 a with regard tothe same type of information. Thus, it may no longer be necessary totransmit complete general information to the RFU 3 a, which may resultin a reduction in the amount of information from the digital protocolframe, leading to more efficient data transmission.

It should be noted that in an exemplary operation, data may betransmitted between the BBU 2, serving as a transmitter, to one of theRFUs 3, serving as a receiver. However, data may likewise be transmittedbetween one of the RFUs 3, in this case serving as a transmitter, to theBBU 2, which in this case would serve as a receiver.

Advantageously, the present technology may allow for processing of radiofrequency carriers in terms of bandwidth (MHz/bandwidth) rather than interms of throughput rate (Mbit/s) via the wireless communicationschannel 7. Again, the wireless communications channel 7 maycommunicatively couple the BBU 2 and the series of RFUs 3 of the BS 1.This configuration allows for a digital solution that benefits from themodulation effectiveness of the technologies implemented on thiswireless communications channel 7.

Additionally, spectrum efficiency may be maintained transparently withregards to the Radio Access Technology used on wireless communicationchannel 7. The present technology can also benefit from the inherentadvantages of line of sight/non-line of sight “LoS/NLoS” technologiesbetween fixed stations and single users. Additionally, this methodallows the use of different frequency bands to transmit differentsignals according to the methods described in European Patent Number1895681, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in itsentirety including all references cited therein.

In some instances the present technology advantageously accommodatescomplementary diversity technologies to increase efficiency such asmulti-polarization, line-of-sight multiple-input multiple-output “LoSMIMO,” and so forth.

With methods and systems for transmitting information described aboverelate to the field of mobile telephony, the present technology may beapplicable to many types of radio networks such as public mobile radionetworks “PMR” used by law enforcement and first responders, as well asin any radio system that includes radio stations and antennas or activeantennas and/or radar—just to name a few.

FIG. 9A is a flowchart of an exemplary method 600 for transmittinginformation via a wireless communications channel. According to someembodiments, the method 600 may comprise a step 605 of separating, via atransmitter unit, a digital fronthaul data flow into general informationand radio signal information using a digital protocol frame. Accordingto some embodiments, the step 605 of separating may includedemultiplexing of the general information and the radio signalinformation from the digital fronthaul data.

In some instances, in the step 605 of separating, information notbelonging to the digital protocol frame may be removed to reduce theamount of unneeded data that is transmitted over the wireless networksegment. This feature may reduce the latency of the wireless networksegment, while also reserving network bandwidth for greater consumptionand transmission of radio signal information and/or general information.

Additionally, the method 600 may comprise a step 610 of splitting theradio signal information into radio frequency carriers as well as a step615 of transmitting the radio frequency carriers between the transmitterand the receiver. The transmission of the radio signal informationand/or carrier is carried out using appropriate radio access interfacetechnologies. Moreover, step 620 may include a step of transmitting thegeneral information via the transmitter unit to a receiver on a secondcommunications channel. In some instances, the transmitter and thereceiver may be communicatively coupled with one another using a digitalcommunications channel. In some instances, the general information maybe transmitted over the wireless network segment by digital modulationof the general information.

FIG. 9B is a flowchart of an exemplary method 625 for transmittinginformation. It is noteworthy that the method described with regard toFIG. 9A specifies the separating of digital fronthaul data intoconstituent parts to enhance the transmission of the constituent partsover a wireless network segment. The method 625 of FIG. 9B contemplatesthe reassembling of the separated parts transmitted over the wirelessnetwork segment in such a way that the digital fronthaul data isrecreated.

The method 625 may include a step 630 of digitally demodulating thegeneral information as it is received by the receiver (or prior toreceipt of the general information). Similarly, the method 625 mayinclude a step 635 of reconverting the series of carriers into radiosignal information. Again, the radio signal information is a digitalsignal. By extension, the step 635 allows for a step 640 ofreconstructing the digital protocol frames used by the receiver. Afterreconstructing the digital protocol frames, the method may include astep 645 of multiplexing the digital protocol frames to recover thedigital fronthaul data. It is noteworthy that the recovered digitalfronthaul data may include less data than the original digital fronthauldata if unneeded data was removed during a subsequent step of evaluatingthe digital protocol frames.

Although not shown, exemplary methods may also include steps such astransmitting information for synchronizing the general information andthe radio signal information as well as buffering of both the generalinformation and the radio frequency information before synchronizing thegeneral information and the radio signal information. Thissynchronization may depend, in part, on the synchronization informationused. Synchronization may be utilized for timing recovery, locationdetermination using methods such as Time Difference of Arrival, andvarious mobile wireless functions such as diversity, Multiple InputMultiple Output, coordinated or joint transmission, and time divisionmultiplexing. For example, transmission of the general information andthe radio frequency information through the wireless network havingunstable synchronization may result in a degradation or failure of themobile wireless performance. This problem is propounded when severalfronthaul links are chained or juxtaposed. Thus, proper and stablesynchronization of the various nodes in the transport network isnecessary to ensure a proper quality and performance. It is noteworthythat transmission steps may be carried out on different frequency bands.Additionally, in some embodiments the transmitter may include a basebandmodule and the receiver may include at least one radio frequency unit,or vice versa.

Other exemplary methods may include the step of processing the generalinformation in the BBU coupling module 5 prior transmitting it. The term“processing” may be understood to include the modification of RF signalsbased upon the content control information included in the generalinformation.

According to some embodiments, obtaining precise and stablesynchronization may be realized by using global positioning system (GPS)data obtained from receivers communicatively coupled with certainfronthaul management modules within the network. Since a high precisionof the synchronization information may not be required in all nodes ofthe network, using additional synchronization sources such as GPS can beused in those nodes where such precision may be required. By using thisexternal synchronization source, the fronthaul modules are able toensure that the synchronization information stays precise over anyperiod of time. While the use of GPS data has been described, one ofordinary skill in the art would appreciate that other synchronizationdata may likewise be utilized in accordance with the present technology.

As mentioned previously, while the above-described methods fortransmitting information have been described in relation to a basestation (BS) of a mobile telephone communications system, the methodsfor transmitting information are applicable in any suitable field thatwould be known to one of ordinary skill in the art with the presentdisclosure before them.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary computing system 700 that may be usedto implement an embodiment of the present technology. The computingsystem 700 of FIG. 10 includes one or more processors 710 and memory720. Main memory 720 stores, in part, instructions and data forexecution by processor 710. Main memory 720 can store the executablecode when the system 700 is in operation. The system 700 of FIG. 10 mayfurther include a mass storage device 730, portable storage mediumdrive(s) 740, output devices 750, user input devices 760, a graphicsdisplay 770, and other peripheral devices 780. The system 700 may alsocomprise network storage 745.

The components shown in FIG. 10 are depicted as being connected via asingle bus 790. The components may be connected through one or more datatransport means. Processor unit 710 and main memory 720 may be connectedvia a local microprocessor bus, and the mass storage device 730,peripheral device(s) 780, portable storage device 740, and graphicsdisplay 770 may be connected via one or more input/output (I/O) buses.

Mass storage device 730, which may be implemented with a magnetic diskdrive or an optical disk drive, is a non-volatile storage device forstoring data and instructions for use by processor unit 710. Massstorage device 730 can store the system software for implementingembodiments of the present technology for purposes of loading thatsoftware into main memory 720.

Portable storage device 740 operates in conjunction with a portablenon-volatile storage medium, such as a floppy disk, compact disk ordigital video disc, to input and output data and code to and from thecomputing system 700 of FIG. 10. The system software for implementingembodiments of the present technology may be stored on such a portablemedium and input to the computing system 700 via the portable storagedevice 740.

Input devices 760 provide a portion of a user interface. Input devices760 may include an alphanumeric keypad, such as a keyboard, forinputting alphanumeric and other information, or a pointing device, suchas a mouse, a trackball, stylus, or cursor direction keys. Additionally,the system 700 as shown in FIG. 10 includes output devices 750. Suitableoutput devices include speakers, printers, network interfaces, andmonitors.

Graphics display 770 may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) or othersuitable display device. Graphics display 770 receives textual andgraphical information, and processes the information for output to thedisplay device.

Peripherals 780 may include any type of computer support device to addadditional functionality to the computing system. Peripheral device(s)780 may include a modem or a router.

The components contained in the computing system 700 of FIG. 10 arethose typically found in computing systems that may be suitable for usewith embodiments of the present technology and are intended to representa broad category of such computer components that are well known in theart. Thus, the computing system 700 can be a personal computer, handheld computing system, telephone, mobile computing system, workstation,server, minicomputer, mainframe computer, or any other computing system.The computer can also include different bus configurations, networkedplatforms, multi-processor platforms, etc. Various operating systems canbe used including UNIX, Linux, Windows, Macintosh OS, Palm OS, and othersuitable operating systems.

Some of the above-described functions may be composed of instructionsthat are stored on storage media (e.g., computer-readable medium). Theinstructions may be retrieved and executed by the processor. Someexamples of storage media are memory devices, tapes, disks, and thelike. The instructions are operational when executed by the processor todirect the processor to operate in accord with the technology. Thoseskilled in the art are familiar with instructions, processor(s), andstorage media.

It is noteworthy that any hardware platform suitable for performing theprocessing described herein is suitable for use with the technology. Theterms “computer-readable storage medium” and “computer-readable storagemedia” as used herein refer to any medium or media that participate inproviding instructions to a CPU for execution. Such media can take manyforms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile mediaand transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, opticalor magnetic disks, such as a fixed disk. Volatile media include dynamicmemory, such as system RAM. Transmission media include coaxial cables,copper wire and fiber optics, among others, including the wires thatcomprise one embodiment of a bus. Transmission media can also take theform of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during radiofrequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms ofcomputer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexibledisk, a hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROMdisk, digital video disk (DVD), any other optical medium, any otherphysical medium with patterns of marks or holes, a RAM, a PROM, anEPROM, an EEPROM, a FLASHEPROM, any other memory chip or data exchangeadapter, a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer canread.

Various forms of computer-readable media may be involved in carrying oneor more sequences of one or more instructions to a CPU for execution. Abus carries the data to system RAM, from which a CPU retrieves andexecutes the instructions. The instructions received by system RAM canoptionally be stored on a fixed disk either before or after execution bya CPU.

Computer program code for carrying out operations for aspects of thepresent technology may be written in any combination of one or moreprogramming languages, including an object oriented programming languagesuch as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional proceduralprogramming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similarprogramming languages. The program code may execute entirely on theuser's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alonesoftware package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remotecomputer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latterscenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computerthrough any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or awide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an externalcomputer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet ServiceProvider).

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of allmeans or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended toinclude any structure, material, or act for performing the function incombination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. Thedescription of the present technology has been presented for purposes ofillustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive orlimited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications andvariations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artwithout departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Exemplaryembodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain theprinciples of the present technology and its practical application, andto enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand theinvention for various embodiments with various modifications as aresuited to the particular use contemplated.

Aspects of the present technology are described above with reference toflowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus(systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of theinvention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchartillustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in theflowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented bycomputer program instructions. These computer program instructions maybe provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, specialpurpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus toproduce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via theprocessor of the computer or other programmable data processingapparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified inthe flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computerreadable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable dataprocessing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particularmanner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readablemedium produce an article of manufacture including instructions whichimplement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks.

The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer,other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to causea series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, otherprogrammable apparatus or other devices to produce a computerimplemented process such that the instructions which execute on thecomputer or other programmable apparatus provide processes forimplementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate thearchitecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementationsof systems, methods and computer program products according to variousembodiments of the present technology. In this regard, each block in theflowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portionof code, which comprises one or more executable instructions forimplementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be notedthat, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in theblock may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, twoblocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantiallyconcurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverseorder, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be notedthat each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, andcombinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchartillustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-basedsystems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations ofspecial purpose hardware and computer instructions.

While various embodiments have been described above, it should beunderstood that they have been presented by way of example only, and notlimitation. The descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of thetechnology to the particular forms set forth herein. Thus, the breadthand scope of a preferred embodiment should not be limited by any of theabove-described exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that theabove description is illustrative and not restrictive. To the contrary,the present descriptions are intended to cover such alternatives,modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit andscope of the technology as defined by the appended claims and otherwiseappreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The scope of thetechnology should, therefore, be determined not with reference to theabove description, but instead should be determined with reference tothe appended claims along with their full scope of equivalents.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A method, comprising: evaluating key performanceindicators for a plurality of network segments of a wide area transportnetwork, the plurality of network segments comprising at least onewireline network and at least one wireless network communicativelycoupled with one another; and based upon the evaluation of keyperformance indicators, performing any of multiplexing, demultiplexing,or passing of fronthaul data flow across the plurality of networksegments.
 22. The method according to claim 21, wherein the fronthauldata flow comprises the radio signal information, control protocolinformation, and user data flow and wherein the passing of the fronthauldata flow comprises separating the fronthaul data into controlinformation, user information and radio signal information, andtransmitting the radio signal information as RF carriers, andtransmitting the control protocol information and user information asdigital data.
 23. (canceled)
 24. A network device of a wide areatransport network, the network device comprising: a first networkinterface; a second network interface; a processor; and a memory forstoring instructions, the processor executing the instructions to:separate a fronthaul data flow originating from the first interface andcomprising a plurality of signals into radio signal information, controlprotocol information, and user data flow and to transmit the radiosignal information on the second interface as Radio Frequency (“RF”)carrier signals and to transmit the control information and the userdata flow on the second interface using digital communication methods;transmit a portion of the separated fronthaul data flow to a wirelesstransceiver of the wireless network; and transmit another portion of theseparated fronthaul data flow to the wired network.
 25. The networkdevice according to claim 24, wherein the second interface comprises awireless interface.
 26. The network device according to claim 24,wherein the fronthaul data flow comprises the radio signal information,control protocol information, and user data flow and wherein the passingof the fronthaul data flow comprises separating the fronthaul data intocontrol information, user information and radio signal information, andtransmitting the radio signal information as RF carriers, andtransmitting the control protocol information and user information asdigital data.
 27. The network device according to claim 24, wherein theplurality of signals comprises any of (a) radio signal informationtransmitted as Radio Frequency carrier signals, (b) control protocolinformation, (c) user data flow, and (d) a digital fronthaul data flowwhich comprises a multiplex of digitized samples of (a), and of (b), and(c), and any combination of digitized samples of (a), (b), and (c). 28.The network device according to claim 24, wherein the network device iscoupled with at least one baseband module that is communicativelycoupled with the wireline network and the wireless transceiver iscommunicatively coupled with the wireless network.
 29. The networkdevice according to claim 24, further comprising a fronthaul module thatreceives a digital fronthaul data flow and demultiplexes the digitalfronthaul data flow into radio signal information, control protocolinformation, and user data flow and wherein the radio signal informationis transformed into a Radio Frequency carrier signal.
 30. The networkdevice according to claim 29, wherein the fronthaul module iscommunicatively coupled to the at least one wireless transceiver andmultiplexes radio signal information, control protocol information fromthe at least one wireless transceiver, and user data flow into a digitalfronthaul data flow for output to the baseband module or anotherwireless transceiver.
 31. The network device according to claim 24,wherein the wide area transport network comprises one or more publicnetwork segments having resources dedicated to transporting thefronthaul data flow.
 32. The network device according to claim 24,wherein network device outputs radio signal information coded as RadioFrequency carrier signals, control protocol information, and user dataflow and the wireless transceiver receives the radio signal information,control protocol information, and user data flow.
 33. The network deviceaccording to claim 32, wherein the network device outputs the pluralityof signals as an analog radio frequency carrier signal and one or morefronthaul modules transmit the radio frequency carrier signals to one ormore wireless transceivers without reconverting and remultiplexing theradio frequency carrier signals into a digital fronthaul flow.
 34. Thenetwork device according to claim 24, wherein the wireline networkcomprises a fiber hub that is communicatively coupled to a plurality ofwireless transceivers via the network device.
 35. The network deviceaccording to claim 24, wherein the network device further utilizessynchronization to increase synchronization precision between thecontrol and RF signal data flows processed by the network device.
 36. Amethod, comprising: receiving fronthaul data flow on a first networkinterface, determining whether to pass along the fronthaul data flow ona second network interface, or to transmit the fronthaul data flow on athird network interface after processing, the processing operation inthe case where the fronthaul data flow is transmitted on a third networkinterface comprising of demultiplexing the fronthaul data, separating itinto radio signal information, control protocol information and userdata flow, then processing it and transmitting it on the third networkinterface by transmitting the radio signal information as RadioFrequency (“RF”) carrier and by transmitting the control protocolinformation and user data flow using digital communication methods; andremultiplexing the fronthaul data in the case where it is transmittedover the third network interface by another network device that iscoupled communicatively with one or more networks elements of a widearea transport network;
 37. The method according to claim 36, furthercomprising multiplexing the radio signal information, control protocolinformation, and user data flow into a digital fronthaul data flow. 38.The method according to claim 37, wherein the radio signal informationis an analog signal that comprises a plurality of radio frequencycarriers that correspond to the radio signal information used by awireless network to which the fronthaul module is communicativelycoupled.
 39. The method according to claim 37, further comprisingencoding the control protocol information and user data flow using adigital data transmission protocol.
 40. The method according to claim36, further comprising outputting fronthaul data flow by the networkdevice, the fronthaul data flow comprising radio signal information,control protocol information, and user data flow; and receiving theradio signal information, control protocol information, and user dataflow at a wireless transceiver endpoint.
 40. The method according toclaim 36, further comprising transporting the fronthaul data flow over apublic network using dedicated resources of that network.
 41. The methodaccording to claim 36, wherein the third interface comprises a wirelessinterface.
 42. The method according to claim 36, wherein thedetermination of whether to use the second interface or the thirdinterface is made according to a set of performance parameters andcriteria known to the network element.